Methods and apparatus for providing improved visual and optionally tactile features on a substrate

ABSTRACT

Methods and apparatus provide for an improved visual and optionally tactile features on a visible element of an article, such as a consumer electronic device (e.g., a mobile electronic device, a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet, a phablet, a notebook computer, a laptop, etc.).

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional application and claims the benefit ofpriority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/678,817filed on Aug. 16, 2017, which in turn, claims the benefit of priorityunder 35 U.S.C. § 119 of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.62/397,657 filed on Sep. 21, 2016, which in turn, claims the benefit ofpriority of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/375,642 filed onAug. 16, 2016, the contents of each of which are relied upon andincorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to methods and apparatus for providingimproved visual and optionally tactile features on a substrate, such ason a substrate used on a consumer article.

As the sophistication of consumers continues to evolve and increase, theimportance of aesthetic features, especially the integration of form andfunction, also increases. Nowhere is this more evident than in the fieldof consumer electronics, such as in the design of mobile electronicdevices (such as, mobile phones, smartphones, tablets, phablets,notebook computers, laptops, etc.). There have been many instances inwhich a consumer electronic device that exhibits some enhanced aestheticfeature over competing devices will enjoy significantly higheracceptance in the marketplace despite relatively comparable functionalcharacteristics.

For example, there have been efforts in the marketplace to add a visualelement, such as an image or color feature, to some surface(s) of amobile electronic device, such as to the back side of a mobile phone.While consumers have come to accept and even desire such visualelements, a consistent issue with previous efforts is the relativelyflat two-dimensional and/or passive appearance of the visual element.

Accordingly, there are needs in the art for new methods and apparatusfor providing visual and optionally tactile features on a substrate.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure relates to methods and apparatus for providingimproved visual and optionally tactile features on a visible element ofan article, such as a consumer electronic device (e.g., a mobileelectronic device, a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet, a phablet, anotebook computer, a laptop, etc.)

In accordance with one or more embodiments, an article may include someform of a housing in which functional elements of the article aredisposed. For example, the housings of many smartphone devices include atouchscreen on a front side of the article and a substrate on the backside of the article. In rather basic configurations, the substrate onthe back side of the article may be opaque, such as black or white. Moreinteresting visual elements may include color, color and/or patterns,designs, images, etc. In robust applications, such visual elements(especially printed elements) may be disposed on an inner surface (e.g.,an inwardly facing surface of the substrate or, in other words, asurface facing the interior of the housing) of an at least partiallytransparent, at least partially transmissive, or at least partiallytranslucent substrate, such as a glass substrate, a glass-ceramicsubstrate, or a polymer substrate. Partially transparent, partiallytransmissive, and/or partially translucent may be quantified, forexample, by exhibiting greater than about 1% (and preferably greaterthan about 5%) direct transmission of light. Thus, the visual elementmay be seen by the user through the substrate but the visual element isprotected from wear or damage by way of being disposed on the inwardlyfacing surface of the substrate.

In accordance with one or more further embodiments, the above-notedvisual element(s) may be combined with one or more tactile elements. Forexample, an outer surface of the substrate (e.g., an outwardly facingsurface of the housing) on the back side of the article may be subjectto surface processing in order to provide some level of roughening(e.g., a surface roughening, a hazing effect, etc.) and/or somerelatively small surface elements exhibiting height differencecharacteristics in order to provide some tactile feedback to the user.The tactile feedback may range from a feeling of sticky smooth (verylittle or no surface roughness and/or small surface elements), to afeeling of velvety softness (moderate levels of surface roughness and/orsmall surface elements), to a feeling of substantial roughness (higherlevels of surface roughness and/or small surface elements). The surfaceroughness discussed herein may be quantified, for example, as exhibitingan Ra surface roughness of between about 10 nm and about 80 nm for arelatively sticky-smooth surface roughness, between about 80 nm andabout 300 nm for a relatively moderate surface roughness, and greaterthan about 300 nm for a relatively rough surface roughness. The heightdifference characteristics of the small surface elements discussedherein may be implemented via relatively small elements extending awayfrom a surface of the substrate and may be quantified, for example, ashaving a height of between about 10 nm and about 80 nm for a relativelysticky-smooth surface roughness, between about 80 nm and about 300 nmfor a relatively moderate surface roughness, and greater than about 300nm for a relatively rough surface roughness.

In accordance with one or more further embodiments, a combination of theaforementioned visual elements and the aforementioned tactile elementsmay be combined in such a way as to enhance both the look and the feelof the article. For example, the tactile element may enhance the feel ofthe article in the user's hand—but the tactile element also may alsooperate in such a way that the visual effect is visually enhanced ascompared to the visual effect without the tactile element. For example,a notably visually stimulating (depth and/or three-dimensional) effecthas been discovered by providing the visual element (e.g., an image orpattern) on the inner surface of the substrate and providing the tactileelement (e.g., surface roughness and/or small surface elements) in acomplimentary way on the outer surface of the substrate. In this regard,the complimentary nature of providing the tactile element may includeproviding a pattern of roughness and/or small surface elements thatcomplements the color(s), line(s), pattern(s), design(s), and/orimage(s), etc. of the visual element. Skilled artisans will appreciatethat the aforementioned complementary provision of the tactile elementmay include providing lines, areas, designs, shapes, patters, etc. ofsurface roughness and/or small surface elements on the outer surface ofthe substrate that substantially match (e.g., are in registration with)corresponding lines, shapes, patterns, colors, etc. of the visualelement. Notably, however, alternative and desirable visual effects maybe obtained without substantial registration, but rather with somealternative complimentary correspondence of, the lines, areas, designs,shapes, patters, etc. of surface roughness and/or small surface elementson the outer surface of the substrate with the visual element on theopposite, inner surface thereof.

In accordance with one or more further embodiments, the aforementionedvisual element may be provided in such a way that certain visualcharacteristics of the visual element change depending on a viewingangle of the user. For example, the visual element may include at leasttwo visual elements, each having at least some differing characteristics(e.g., different colors, different line patterns, different designs,different images, and/or combinations thereof, etc.). The at least twovisual elements may be provided in an integrated fashion on or with thesubstrate in such a way that one of the at least two visual elements isdominant (more visible) than the other (which is subordinate) when theuser views the substrate at low viewing angles and the other of the atleast two visual elements is dominant (more visible) than the one whenthe user views the substrate at higher viewing angles (i.e.,significantly acute angles). The reference line for measuring viewingangle is a line perpendicular to a major surface of the substrate, andthis line is defined as 0 degrees. Viewing angles are then measured withrespect to this reference line. By way of example, a low viewing angleis one that is in the same direction (or parallel) with the referenceline, and ones less than the significantly acute angle. By way ofexample, a significantly acute angle may be greater than about 10degrees, 20 degrees, 30 degrees, 40 degrees, 50 degrees, 60 degrees, 70degrees, or 80 degrees, all as measured with respect to the referenceline. A transitional effect, where the user may see a gradual changefrom dominance to subordinance of the one visual characteristic to theother visual characteristic as the viewing angle changes from low tohigh (significantly acute), and vice versa. The angle (or range ofangles) at which transition between low viewing angle and high viewingangle takes place may vary depending upon the desired effect for aparticular embodiment.

In accordance with one or more further embodiments, the above-notedeffect of gradual variation from dominance to subordinance of a visualelement as a function of viewing angle may be combined with theabove-noted complementary tactile features (surface roughness, haze,and/or small surface elements) to produce even more visual and tactileeffects.

The embodiments, and the features of those embodiments, as discussedherein are exemplary and can be provided alone or in any combinationwith any one or more features of other embodiments provided hereinwithout departing from the scope of the disclosure.

Other aspects, features, and advantages will be apparent to one skilledin the art from the description herein taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For the purposes of illustration, there are forms shown in the drawingsthat are presently preferred, it being understood, however, that theembodiments disclosed and described herein are not limited to theprecise arrangements and instrumentalities shown.

FIG. 1 includes a top view and a perspective view of a substrate havingboth visual and tactile features;

FIGS. 2-3 contain schematic images of a substrate as it moves through aprocess for disposing the visual and tactile features thereon;

FIG. 4 contains schematic images of a substrate as it moves through analternative process for disposing the visual and tactile featuresthereon;

FIGS. 5-8 include a top view and a series of perspective views of acomposite substrate having visual features that change with viewingangle;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the composite substrate of FIGS. 5-8with respective first and second substrates thereof in a separatedconfiguration;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an alternative composite substrate withrespective first and second substrates thereof in a separatedconfiguration, and including tactile features;

FIGS. 11-14 include a top view and a series of perspective views of acomposite substrate having color visual features that change withviewing angle; and

FIG. 15 is a perspective view the composite substrate of FIGS. 11-14with respective first and second substrates thereof in a separatedconfiguration.

FIG. 16A is a plan view of an exemplary electronic device incorporatingany of the strengthened articles disclosed herein.

FIG. 16B is a perspective view of the exemplary electronic device ofFIG. 16A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

With reference to the drawings wherein like numerals indicate likeelements there is shown in FIG. 1 a substrate 100-1 in accordance withone or more embodiments of this disclosure.

As mentioned above, among the applications of the substrate 100-1 is toprovide a visible element of an article, such as a consumer electronicdevice (e.g., a mobile electronic device, a mobile phone, a smartphone,a tablet, a phablet, a notebook computer, a laptop, etc.) In someembodiments, the substrate 100-1 may also be a structural element of thearticle, such as forming part of a housing thereof. By way of example,the substrate 100-1 may be formed from glass, glass ceramic material,and/or a polymer material, particularly featuring an at least partiallytransparent, partially transmissive, and/or at least partiallytranslucent characteristic (e.g., exhibiting greater than about 1%, andpreferably greater than about 5%, direct transmission of light). In someembodiments, the substrate 100-1 may be formed from strengthened glass,for example thermally strengthened glass or chemically-strengthenedglass, as made with an ion-exchange process for example.

The substrate 100-1 includes a first major surface 102, a second majorsurface 104 opposite the first major surface, and at least one edgesurface 106 extending between the first and second major surfaces 102,104. By way of example, the article (e.g., a mobile electronics device)that comprises the substrate 100-1 may include a housing within whichcomponents of the article are disposed, and wherein the first majorsurface 102 of the substrate 100-1 forms an outer surface of thehousing. Thus, the user of the article may both see and touch the firstmajor surface 102 of the substrate 100-1 when handling the housing ofthe article.

As previously mentioned, desirable characteristic(s) of the housing ofthe article include providing improved visual and optionally tactilefeatures via the first major surface 102 of the substrate 100-1. In thisregard, the substrate 100-1 includes at least one visual element 210-1,210-2 disposed on the second major surface 104 of the substrate 100-1such that the at least one visual element may be viewed through thefirst major surface 102 thereof. Additionally and/or alternatively, theat least one visual element 210-1, 210-2 may be disposed within thesubstrate 100-1 using known techniques (e.g., using pigmented glass,etc.). The at least one visual element 210-1, 210-2 may include one ormore visual portions arranged into at least one of: (i) one or moreareas of color, (ii) one or more lines, (iii) one or more patterns, (iv)one or more designs, (v) one or more images, and (vi) one or morecombinations thereof. By way of example, the at least one visual elementincludes a first visual element 210-1 (e.g., a circle formed via color,lines, patterns, shading, design, etc.), and a second visual element210-2 (e.g., a triangle formed via color, lines, patterns, shading,design, etc.). Those skilled in the art will appreciate that theparticular artistic elements comprised within the at least one visualelement 210-1, 210-2 are seemingly infinite, and the illustratedexamples are not limiting.

As will be discussed in greater detail later herein, the at least onevisual element 210-1, 210-2 may be printed on the second major surface104 of the substrate 100-1, serving as an inner surface (e.g., aninwardly facing surface of the substrate 100-1 or, in other words, asurface facing an interior of the housing of the article). Thus, the atleast one visual element 210-1, 210-2 may be seen by the user throughthe substrate 100-1 but the at least one visual element 210-1, 210-2 isprotected from wear or damage by way of being disposed on the inwardlyfacing surface (i.e., the second major surface) 104 of the substrate100-1. As noted above, additional and/or alternative embodiments mayinclude the at least one visual element 210-1, 210-2 disposed within thesubstrate 100-1.

In addition, the illustrated embodiment includes a combination of the atleast one visual element 210-1, 210-2 and at least one tactile element212-1, 212-2. As will be explained in more detail below, the combinationof the at least one visual element 210-1, 210-2 and the at least onetactile element 212-1, 212-2 may be combined in such a way as to enhanceboth the look and the feel of the article with which the substrate 100-1is associated. For example, the at least one tactile element 212-1,212-2 may enhance the feel of the article in the user's hand—but the atleast one tactile element 212-1, 212-2 may also operate in such a waythat the at least one visual element 210-1, 210-2 is visually enhancedas compared to the at least one visual element 210-1, 210-2 without theat least one tactile element 210-1, 210-2. For example, a notablyvisually stimulating (depth and/or three-dimensional) effect has beendiscovered by providing the at least one visual element 210-1, 210-2 onthe second major surface 104 of the substrate 100-1 and providing the atleast one tactile element 212-1, 212-2 in a complimentary way on thefirst major surface 102 of the substrate 100-1. In this regard, thecomplimentary nature of providing the at least one tactile element212-1, 212-2 may include providing one or more portions of surfaceroughness and/or small surface elements that complement the color(s),line(s), pattern(s), design(s), and/or image(s), etc. of the at leastone visual element 210-1, 210-2.

Skilled artisans will appreciate that the aforementioned complementaryprovision of the at least one tactile element 212-1, 212-2 may includeproviding lines, areas, designs, shapes, patterns, etc. of surfaceroughness and/or small surface elements on the first major surface 102of the substrate 100-1 that substantially match (e.g., are inregistration with) corresponding lines, shapes, patterns, colors, etc.of the at least one visual element 210-1, 210-2. Notably, however,alternative desirable visual effects may be obtained without substantialregistration, but rather with some alternative complimentarycorrespondence of, the lines, areas, designs, shapes, patters, etc. ofsurface roughness and/or small surface elements on the first majorsurface 102 of the substrate 100-1 via the at least one tactile element212-1, 212-2 with the at least one visual element 210-1, 210-2 on theopposite, second major surface 104 thereof.

In this regard, the substrate 100-1 includes the at least one tactileelement 212-1, 212-2 disposed on the first major surface 102 thereof. Inthe illustrated example, the at least one tactile element 212-1, 212-2includes one or more surface roughness portions and/or small surfaceelements arranged into at least one of: (i) one or more areas of surfaceroughness and/or small surface elements, (ii) one or more lines ofsurface roughness and/or small surface elements, (iii) one or morepatterns of surface roughness and/or small surface elements, (iv) one ormore designs of surface roughness and/or small surface elements, and (v)one or more combinations thereof. By way of example, the at least onetactile element includes a first tactile element 212-1 (e.g., a circleformed via a line of elevated surface roughness and/or small surfaceelements, or a line of reduced surface roughness and/or small surfaceelements), and a second tactile element 212-2 (e.g., a triangle formedvia a line of elevated surface roughness and/or small surface elements,or a line of reduced surface roughness and/or small surface elements).Again, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the particularartistic elements comprised within the at least one tactile element212-1, 212-2 are seemingly without limit.

As will be discussed in greater detail later herein, the at least onetactile element 212-1, 212-2 may be applied to the first major surface102 of the substrate 100-1 in such a way that such surface serves as anouter surface of the housing on a back side of the article. The firstmajor surface 102 of the substrate 100-1 may be subject to surfaceprocessing in order to provide some level of surface roughening (e.g., ahazing effect) that provides some tactile feedback to the user. As willbe further developed later herein, the level of surface roughness and/orsmall surface elements may range from a feeling of sticky smooth (verylittle or no surface roughness and/or small surface elements), to afeeling of velvety softness (moderate levels of surface roughness, suchas a matte surface roughness, and/or moderate levels of small surfaceelements), to a feeling of substantial roughness (higher levels ofroughness and/or small surface elements) in order to achieve designgoals.

As can be seen in the illustration of FIG. 1, at least some of the oneor more surface roughness portions (and/or small surface elementportions) of the at least one tactile element 212-1, 212-2 arepositioned on the first major surface 102 of the substrate 100-1 in acomplimentary fashion with respect to at least some of the one or morevisual portions of the at least one visual element 210-1, 210-2. It hasbeen found that such an arrangement modifies the visual effect of the atleast one visual element 210-1, 210-2 as viewed through the first majorsurface 102 of the substrate 100-1. For example, in some configurations,the complementary arrangement provides a three-dimensional visualeffect, particularly at some viewing angles. For example, the firsttactile element 212-1 may be shaped and positioned to be in substantialregistration with the first visual element 210-1, and the second tactileelement 212-2 may be shaped and positioned to be in substantialregistration with the second visual element 210-2.

In this example, the substantial registration of the first tactileelement 212-1 relative to the first visual element 210-1, may beachieved via a first surface roughness portion (and/or small surfaceelement portion) of the first tactile element 212-1 in the form of aline (e.g., a circular outline) of complementary size and shape as thecircle of the first visual element 210-1. Similarly, the substantialregistration of the second tactile element 212-2 relative to the secondvisual element 210-2, may be achieved via a second surface roughnessportion (and/or small surface element portion) of the second tactileelement 212-2 in the form of a line (e.g., a triangular outline) ofcomplementary size and shape as the triangle of the second visualelement 210-2.

The surface roughness portions (and/or small surface element portions)of the first tactile element 212-1 (in the form of a circle or circularoutline) and/or of the second tactile element 212-2 (in the form of atriangle or triangular outline) may be achieved in any number of ways.For example, the surface roughness portions (and/or small surfaceelement portion) may be defined by an area (in this case a circle, atriangle, a circular and/or triangular area) of relatively highersurface roughness (and/or higher surface element height) that ispositioned in the visually complimentary fashion with respect to thecorresponding visual element 210-1 and/or 210-2 bordered by at least onearea of relatively lower surface roughness (and/or lower surface elementheight). One way of achieving such an effect is to provide: (i) amajority of a total surface area of the first major surface 102 of thesubstrate 100-1 as a relatively smooth finish of relatively low surfaceroughness (e.g., ranging from no surface roughness or no surface elementheight to some low or moderate level of surface roughness, such as amatte finish surface roughness, and/or moderate level of surface elementheight); and (ii) the area of relatively higher surface roughness,and/or higher surface element height (e.g., the circular and/ortriangular outline, circular and/or triangular area) of the tactileelement 212-1 and/or 212-2 as a minority of the total surface area ofthe first major surface 102 and include at least some portions of suchcircular and/or triangular outline via a surface roughness and/orsurface element height that is relatively rougher (e.g., ranging from amoderate level of surface roughness and/or moderate surface elementheight to a high level of surface roughness and/or high surface elementheight) as compared with the smooth finish.

Alternatively, the surface roughness portions and/or surface elementportions of the first tactile element 212-1 (in the form of a circle orcircular outline) and/or of the second tactile element 212-2 (in theform of a tringle or triangular outline) may be achieved via an area ofrelatively lower surface roughness and/or lower surface element heightthat is positioned in the visually complimentary fashion bordered by atleast one area of relatively higher surface roughness. One way ofachieving such an effect is to provide: (i) a majority of a totalsurface area of the first major surface 102 of the substrate 100-1 as arelatively rough finish (e.g., ranging from some moderate level ofsurface roughness, such as from rougher than a matte finish surfaceroughness, and/or some moderate level of surface element height, to somehigh level of surface roughness and/or some high level of surfaceelement height); and (ii) the area of relatively lower surface roughnessand/or relatively lower surface element height (e.g., the circle, thetriangle, the circular and/or triangular outline) of the tactile element212-1 and/or 212-2 as a minority of the total surface area of the firstmajor surface 102 and include at least some portions of such circle,triangle, circular and/or triangular outline, via a surface roughnessand/or surface element height that is relatively smoother (e.g., rangingfrom no surface roughness and/or no surface element height to some lowlevel of surface roughness and/or low level of surface element height)as compared with the rough finish.

A process for achieving the application of the at least one tactileelement 212-1, 212-2 and the at least one visual element 210-1, 210-2 tothe substrate 100-1 will be discussed with reference to FIGS. 2-3, whichcontain schematic images of a substrate 100 as it moves through theprocess. For purposes of this example, the at least one tactile element210-1, 210-2 is achieved via surface roughness characteristics. Theprocess disclosed in FIGS. 2-3 is one in which the at least one tactileelement 212-1, 212-2 is achieved via a majority of a total surface areaof the first major surface 102 of the substrate 100 being relativelysmooth and relatively higher surface roughness portions of the at leastone tactile element 212-1, 212-2 being disposed in a complementary waywith respect to the at least one visual element 210-1, 210-2.

At step 250, substantially all of the second major surface 104 of thesubstrate 100 is printed with an etch resistive ink (masked, as shown inblack at step 250). Next, the substrate 100 is exposed (e.g., dipped,sprayed, etc.) with an acid solution to generate a low to medium levelof surface roughness on the first major surface 102, such as a mattefinish surface roughness. The resultant matte finish is shown in grey atstep 252 in which the etch resistive ink has been removed to expose therelatively smooth finish of the second major surface 104 of thesubstrate 100 (shown in white at step 252).

At step 254, an etch resistive ink (mask, shown in black in step 254) isapplied to the first major surface 102 of the substrate 100. Inparticular, the etch resistive ink is applied to achieve theaforementioned at least one tactile element 212-1, 212-2 that willeventually be complementary to the at least one visual element 210-1,210-2, such as: (i) one or more areas, (ii) one or more lines, (iii) oneor more patterns (iv) one or more designs, and (v) one or morecombinations thereof. Again, substantially all of the second majorsurface 104 of the substrate 100 is printed with the etch resistive ink(shown in black in step 254). The substrate 100 is again exposed (e.g.,dipped, sprayed, etc.) with an acid solution that is designed to polish(reduce the roughness) of the un-masked regions of the first majorsurface 102 of the substrate 100. The acid solution may also reduce thethickness of the substrate 100 in the un-masked regions via materialremoval. The resulting matte finish and tactile elements are shown instep 256 in which the etch resistive ink has been removed to expose thepreviously masked portions of the first major surface 102 and therelatively smooth finish of the second major surface 104 of thesubstrate 100 (shown in white at step 256). Notably, the previouslymasked portions of the first major surface 102 will thus be of a highersurface roughness than the un-masked regions of the first major surface102, which have been polished and somewhat thinned.

Skilled artisans will appreciate that although use of acids for etchingand/or polishing were described above as being suitable for use inapplying and/or modifying the surface roughness or haze of the substrate100, any other suitable method may be used, for example sand blasting,embossing, rolling, or mechanical polishing.

In an optional step, the substrate 100 may also be exposed to astrengthening process, for example a thermal strengthening process or achemical strengthening process (known in the art as an ion exchangeprocess).

At step 258, the at least one visual element 210-1, 210-2 is applied tothe second major surface 104 of the substrate 100, as shown in step 258via the non-white second major surface 104. As previously discussed,this involves applying the at least one visual element 210-1, 210-2 insuch a way that it may be viewed through the first major surface 102.This may involve ink printing, ink spraying, coating techniques,photolithography, etc., to provide one or more visual portions arrangedinto at least one of: (i) one or more areas of color, (ii) one or morelines, (iii) one or more patterns, (iv) one or more designs, (v) one ormore images, and (vi) one or more combinations thereof. Also as notedabove, the application of the at least one visual element 210-1, 210-2is done such that at least some of the one or more surface roughnessportions of the at least one tactile element 210-1, 210-2 are positionedon the first major surface 102 of the substrate 100 in a complimentaryfashion with respect to at least some of the one or more visual portionsof the at least one visual element 210-1, 210-2 on the second majorsurface 104 of the substrate 100.

Skilled artisans will appreciate that although ink printing wasdescribed as one manner of forming the etch masks and/or visualelements, any suitable alternative techniques may be employed, forexample, printing, screen printing, doctor blading, gravure printing,photolithography, etc.

At step 260, a process for enhancing the visibility of the at least onevisual element 210-1, 210-2 through the first major surface 102 of thesubstrate is carried out. For example, a bright (and preferably neutral)pigment layer, such as white, is applied over the at least one visualelement 210-1, 210-2 on the second major surface 104 by way of printing,coating, spraying, etc. The bright layer is shown in step 260 as white.In some embodiments, desirable enhancement of the visibility of the atleast one visual element 210-1, 210-2 may be achieved when the “bright”layer is achieved via a shiny black and/or metallic coating applied overthe at least one visual element 210-1, 210-2 on the second major surface104.

An alternative process for achieving the application of the at least onetactile element 212-1, 212-2 and the at least one visual element 210-1,210-2 to the substrate 100-1 will be discussed with reference to FIG. 4,which contains schematic images of a substrate 100 as it moves throughthe alternative process. For purposes of this example, the at least onetactile element 210-1, 210-2 is again achieved via surface roughnesscharacteristics. Notably, the process disclosed in FIG. 4 is one inwhich the at least one tactile element 212-1, 212-2 is achieved via amajority of a total surface area of the first major surface 102 of thesubstrate 100 being of a relatively high surface roughness andrelatively lower surface roughness portions of the at least one tactileelement 212-1, 212-2 being disposed in a complementary way with respectto the at least one visual element 210-1, 210-2.

At step 280, substantially all of the second major surface 104 of thesubstrate 100 is printed with an etch resistive ink (masked, as shown inblack at step 280). In addition, an etch resistive ink (mask, as shownin black at step 280) is applied to the first major surface 102 of thesubstrate 100. In particular, the etch resistive ink is applied to thefirst major surface 102 to achieve the aforementioned at least onetactile element 212-1, 212-2 that will eventually be complementary tothe at least one visual element 210-1, 210-2, such as: (i) one or moreareas, (ii) one or more lines, (iii) one or more patterns (iv) one ormore designs, and (v) one or more combinations thereof.

Next, the substrate 100 is exposed (e.g., dipped, sprayed, etc.) with anacid solution to generate a low to medium level of surface roughness onthe un-masked portions of the first major surface 102, such as a mattefinish surface roughness. Of course, alternative embodiments may employthe acid solution in such a way to produce higher levels of surfaceroughness. At step 282, the etch resistive ink may then be removed toexpose one or more areas, lines, patterns, designs, combinationsthereof, etc. that are of a relatively smooth finish (shown in white atstep 282) on the first major surface 102 among the other portions thatare of a low to medium level of surface roughness (or alternatively evenhigher levels of roughness, as shown in grey at step 282). In addition,the removal of the etch resistive ink may also expose the relativelysmooth finish of the second major surface 104 of the substrate 100 (asshown in white at step 282).

At step 284, the at least one visual element 210-1, 210-2 is applied tothe second major surface 104 of the substrate 100 (as shown by non-whitesurface 104 at step 282). As previously discussed, this involvesapplying the at least one visual element 210-1, 210-2 in such a way thatit may be viewed through the first major surface 102. This may involveink printing, ink spraying, coating, photolithography, etc., to provideone or more visual portions arranged into at least one of: (i) one ormore areas of color, (ii) one or more lines, (iii) one or more patterns,(iv) one or more designs, (v) one or more images, and (vi) one or morecombinations thereof. Also as noted above, the application of the atleast one visual element 210-1, 210-2 is done such that at least some ofthe one or more surface roughness portions of the at least one tactileelement 210-1, 210-2 are positioned on the first major surface 102 ofthe substrate 100 in a complimentary fashion with respect to at leastsome of the one or more visual portions of the at least one visualelement 210-1, 210-2 on the second major surface 104 of the substrate100.

At step 286, a process for enhancing the visibility of the at least onevisual element 210-1, 210-2 through the first major surface 102 of thesubstrate is carried out. For example, a bright (and preferably neutral)pigment layer, such as white, is applied over the at least one visualelement 210-1, 210-2 on the second major surface 104 by way of printing,coating, spraying, etc., as shown by white on surface 104 at step 286.As mentioned above, desirable enhancement of the visibility of the atleast one visual element 210-1, 210-2 may alternatively be achieved whenthe “bright” layer is achieved via a shiny black and/or metallic coatingapplied over the at least one visual element 210-1, 210-2 on the secondmajor surface 104.

The process described above with reference to FIG. 4 results in twodifferent levels of surface roughness in order to achieve the at leastone tactile element 212-1, 212-2. Skilled artisans will appreciate,however, that the noted steps in the process may be altered (e.g., byadding steps of masking, etching, polishing, and/or other techniques) inorder to achieve three or more different levels of surface roughness,which may enhance the visual and tactile effects at issue.

Skilled artisans will appreciate that the process described above withreference to FIG. 4 may be modified to achieve an alternative set ofcharacteristics for the at least one tactile element 212-1, 212-2. Forexample, the at least one tactile element 212-1, 212-2 may be formedfrom at least two differing levels of surface roughness and/or surfaceelement heights, neither of which is the unaltered, original, smoothsurface finish of the substrate 100.

In this regard, step 280 may include the aforementioned printing ofsubstantially all of the second major surface 104 of the substrate 100with the etch resistive ink (masked). However, prior to applying theetch resistive ink to the first major surface 102, the substrate 100 isexposed (e.g., dipped, sprayed, etc.) with an acid solution to generatesome level of surface roughness on the first major surface 102, such asa matte finish surface roughness. Thereafter the etch resistive ink(mask) is applied to the first major surface 102 of the substrate 100(i.e., over the previously formed matte finish) to achieve theaforementioned at least one tactile element 212-1, 212-2 that willeventually be complementary to the at least one visual element 210-1,210-2.

Next, the substrate 100 is again exposed (e.g., dipped, sprayed, etc.)with an acid solution to generate a further level of surface roughnesson the un-masked portions of the first major surface 102, which isrougher than the previously produced matte finish surface roughness. Atstep 282, the etch resistive ink may then be removed from the firstmajor surface 102 to expose one or more areas, lines, patterns, designs,combinations thereof, etc. that are of the matte finish surfaceroughness (represented by the lines in white at steps 282, 284 in FIG.4) among the other portions that are of a higher level of surfaceroughness (represented by the grey at steps 282, 284 in FIG. 4). Inaddition, the removal of the etch resistive ink may also expose therelatively smooth finish of the second major surface 104 of thesubstrate 100 (as shown in white at step 282).

Next, the remainder of the process previously discussed in connectionwith steps 284 and 286 of FIG. 4 may be carried out, which would producethe at least one tactile element 212-1, 212-2 formed from at least twodiffering levels of surface roughness, neither of which is theunaltered, original, smooth surface finish of the substrate 100, in acomplimentary fashion with respect to the at least one visual element210-1, 210-2.

Again, the process described above results in two different levels ofsurface roughness in order to achieve the at least one tactile element212-1, 212-2. Skilled artisans will appreciate, however, that the notedsteps in the process may be altered (e.g., by adding steps of masking,etching, polishing, and/or other techniques) in order to achieve threeor more different levels of surface roughness, which may enhance thevisual and tactile effects at issue.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 5-8, which include a top view and aseries of perspective views of a composite substrate 100-2 having visualfeatures that change with viewing angle. Similarly to that mentionedpreviously, at least one visual element 220-1, 220-2 may be provided insuch a way that certain visual characteristics thereof change dependingon a viewing angle of the user.

For example, the at least one visual element 220-1, 220-2 may include atleast one first visual element 220-1 and at least one second visualelement 220-2, each having at least one different visual characteristic(e.g., different colors, different line patterns, different designs,different images, different combinations thereof, etc.). In thepresented example, the at least one first visual element 220-1 is animage of circle with a shaded and/or colored design, and the at leastone second visual element 220-2 is an image of circle with a stripedpattern design.

The at least one first and second visual elements 220-1, 220-2 may beprovided in an integrated fashion on or with the substrate 100-2 in sucha way that one of the at least one first and second visual elements220-1, 220-2 is dominant (more visible) than the other (which issubordinate) when the user views the substrate 100-2 at low viewingangles and the other of the at least one first and second visualelements 220-1, 220-2 is dominant (more visible) than the one when theuser views the substrate 100-2 at higher viewing angles. A transitionaleffect may also be evident, where the user may see a gradual change fromdominance to subordinance of the one to the other of the at least onefirst and second visual elements 220-1, 220-2 as the viewing anglechanges from low to high, and vice versa.

The above-noted visual effects will be discussed in more detail laterherein. First, however, reference is made to FIG. 9, which is aperspective view of the composite substrate 100-2 of FIGS. 5-8 withrespective first and second substrates 110-1, 110-2 thereof in aseparated configuration. The first substrate 110-1 has a first majorsurface 112-1, a second major surface 114-1 opposite the first majorsurface 112-1, and at least one edge surface 116-1 extending between thefirst and second major surfaces 112-1 and 114-1. It has been founddesirable that the first substrate 110-1 be formed of an at leastpartially transparent, transmissive and/or translucent material. Thesecond substrate 110-2 has a first major surface 112-2, a second majorsurface 114-2 opposite the first major surface 112-2, and at least oneedge surface 116-2 extending between the first and second major surfaces112-2, 114-2.

The at least one first visual element 220-1 is disposed on the secondmajor surface 114-1 of the first substrate 110-2. Additionally and/oralternatively, the at least one first visual element 220-1 may bedisposed within the first substrate 110-2. Preferably, the at least onefirst visual element 220-1 is at least partially transparent,transmissive, and/or translucent, and the at least one first visualelement 220-1 is viewable through the first major surface 112-1 of thefirst substrate 110-1 at least at one viewing angle and preferably at aplurality of viewing angles. The at least one second visual element220-2 is disposed on at least one of the first and second major surfaces112-2, 114-2 of the second substrate 110-2. Additionally and/oralternatively, the at least one second visual element 220-2 may bedisposed within the second substrate 110-2. Preferably, the at least onesecond visual element 220-2 is substantially less transparent,substantially less translucent, and substantially more opaque than theat least one first visual element 220-1. The at least one second visualelement 220-2 is also viewable through the first major surface 112-1 ofthe first substrate 110-1 at least at one viewing angle and preferablyat a plurality of viewing angles.

The first and second substrates 110-1, 110-2 (after and/or during theapplication of the at least one visual element 222-1, 220-2) aredisposed in a stacked fashion to achieve the composite substrate 100-2,for example in contact with one another. Although skilled artisans mayapply any suitable technique from achieving the stacked characteristicof the composite substrate 100-2, one example is the employment of amaterial layer (not shown) between the first and second substrates110-1, 110-2. In such embodiments, it may be desirable to take thermalexpansion coefficients (of the respective materials in the compositestructure) into consideration. For example, the thermal expansioncoefficients may be matched or un-matched as the particular applicationdictates. Also, it may be desirable to take index of refractions (of therespective materials in the composite structure) into account. Forexample, the indices of refraction may be matched or un-matched as theparticular application dictates. In some embodiments, the material layerbetween the first and second substrates 110-1, 110-2 may be air.

With reference to FIGS. 5-8, a zero degree viewing angle among theplurality of viewing angles is defined as being normal to the first andsecond major surfaces 112-1, 112-2, 114-1, 114-2, of the first andsecond substrates 110-1, 110-2, and relatively high viewing angles amongthe plurality of viewing angles are defined as being significantly acuteto the zero degree viewing angle. By way of example, a significantlyacute angle may be greater than about 10 degrees, 20 degrees, 30degrees, 40 degrees, 50 degrees, 60 degrees, 70 degrees, or 80 degrees.As best seen in FIG. 5, the at least one second visual element 220-2 isdominantly viewable through the first major surface 112-1 of the firstsubstrate 110-1 as compared with the at least one first visual element220-1 at the zero viewing angle. In contrast, as best seen in FIG. 8,the at least one first visual element 220-1 is dominantly viewablethrough the first major surface 112-1 of the first substrate 110-1 ascompared with the at least one second visual element 220-2 at arelatively highest viewing angle (a significantly acute angle of about80 degrees).

As can be seen in succession from FIG. 5 through FIG. 8, the at leastone second visual element 220-2 becomes gradually less dominantlyviewable through the first major surface 112-1 of the first substrate110-1 as compared with the at least one first visual element 220-1 asthe viewing angle increases from zero (FIG. 5) through to the relativelyhigher viewing angle (FIG. 8). Conversely, the at least one first visualelement 220-1 becomes gradually more dominantly viewable through thefirst major surface 112-1 of the first substrate 110-1 as compared withthe at least one second visual element 220-2, as the viewing anglegradually changes from the zero viewing angle to the relatively higherviewing angle (a significantly acute of about 80 degrees, as shown inFIG. 8). At intermediate viewing angles, for example, as shown in FIGS.6 and 7, the at least one first visual element 220-1 and the at leastone second visual element 220-2 are more or less equally visible,presenting a mixed, or combined image.

Skilled artisans will appreciate that the composite substrate 100-2discussed above may include more than two substrates 110-1, 110-2 in thestack, for example, three substrates, four substrates, or more.Additionally or alternatively, the arrangement may include more than twovisual elements 220-1, 220-2, such as three, four, five, or more.

Reference is now made to FIG. 10, which is a perspective view analternative composite substrate 100-3 with respective first and secondsubstrates 110-1, 110-2 thereof in a separated configuration. Inaccordance with one or more further embodiments, the above-noted effectof gradual variation from dominance to subordinance between visualelements 222-1, 220-2 as a function of viewing angle may be combinedwith the above-noted complementary tactile features (e.g., surfaceroughness and/or surface element height differences) to produce evenmore visual and tactile effects.

For discussion purposes, the structure of the composite substrate 100-3is substantially the same as the composite substrate 100-2, except foran additional at least one tactile element 222. The at least one tactileelement 222 is disposed on the first major surface 112-1 of the firstsubstrate 110-1. The at least one tactile element 222 may include anynumber of the aforementioned tactile features discussed above withrespect to previous embodiments. In the illustrated case, the at leastone tactile element 222 includes one or more lines of surface roughnessand/or surface elements (e.g., a circular outline) that is sized, shapedand positioned in a complimentary fashion with respect to the secondvisual element 220-2.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 11-15, where FIGS. 11-14 include a topview, and a series of perspective views of a composite substrate 100-4having color visual features that change with viewing angle. FIG. 15 isa perspective view the composite substrate 100-4 of FIGS. 11-14 withrespective first and second substrates 110-1, 110-2 thereof in aseparated configuration. For discussion purposes, the structure of thecomposite substrate 100-4 is substantially similar to the compositesubstrate 100-3 except for noted differences. An at least one firstvisual element 240-1 (a first color, e.g., translucent blue) is disposedon the second major surface 114-1 of the first substrate 110-1.Additionally and/or alternatively, the at least one first visual element240-1 may be disposed within the first substrate 110-1. An at least onesecond visual element 240-2 (a second color, e.g., at least somewhatopaque red) is disposed on at least one of the first and second majorsurfaces 112-2, 114-2 of the second substrate 110-2. Additionally and/oralternatively, the at least one second visual element 240-2 may bedisposed within the second substrate 110-2. In the illustrated example,the at least one first visual element 240-1 and the at least one secondvisual element 240-2 are disposed in registration but slightly offset ina lateral direction for purposes of explanation only. In practice, thevisual elements may completely overlap.

As best seen in FIG. 11, the at least one second visual element 240-2(for example, a red color) is dominantly viewable through the firstmajor surface 112-1 of the first substrate 110-1 as compared with the atleast one first visual element 240-1 (for example, a blue color) at thezero viewing angle. Thus, an extreme left zone of the substrate 100-4looks dominantly red (240-2), as does a middle zone 240-3. In contrast,an extreme right zone shows no red and only a faint (if any) blue(240-1). In contrast, as best seen in FIG. 14, the at least one firstvisual element 240-1 (blue) is dominantly viewable through the firstmajor surface 112-1 of the first substrate 110-1 as compared with the atleast one second visual element 240-2 (red) at a relatively higherviewing angle. Thus, the extreme right zone of the substrate 100-4 looksdominantly blue (240-1), as does a middle zone 240-3. In contrast, anextreme left zone shows no blue and only a faint (if any) red (240-2).

As can be seen in succession from FIG. 11 through FIG. 14, the at leastone second visual element 240-2 (red) becomes gradually less dominantlyviewable through the first major surface 112-1 of the first substrate110-1 as compared with the at least one first visual element 240-1(blue) as the viewing angle increases from zero (FIG. 11) through to therelatively higher viewing angle (FIG. 14). Conversely, the at least onefirst visual element 240-1 (blue) becomes gradually more dominantlyviewable through the first major surface 112-1 of the first substrate110-1 as compared with the at least one second visual element 240-2(red), as the viewing angle gradually changes from the zero viewingangle to the relatively highest viewing angle. Thus, at intermediateviewing angles, shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 for example, the central zone240-3 appears a varying shades of purple (combined red and blue) as theviewing angle changes.

Skilled artisans will appreciate that the composite substrate 100-4discussed above may include more than two substrates 110-1, 110-2 in thestack, for example, three substrates, four substrates, or more.Additionally or alternatively, the arrangement may include more than twovisual elements 240-1, 240-2, such as three, or four, or more.

Although the disclosure herein has been described with reference toparticular embodiments, it is to be understood that these embodimentsare merely illustrative of the principles and applications of theembodiments herein. It is therefore to be understood that numerousmodifications may be made to the illustrative embodiments and that otherarrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scopeof the present application.

As noted above the one or more tactile elements 212-1, 212-2 on theouter surface of the substrate 100 may be achieved by way of smallsurface elements exhibiting height difference characteristics in orderto provide some tactile feedback to the user. By way of example, thesmall surface elements may be implemented by changing relative heightsof a number of surface portions of the substrate (via material additionor subtraction), which results in: (i) one or more areas of surfaceheight differences, (ii) one or more lines of surface heightdifferences, (iii) one or more patterns of surface height differences,(iv) one or more designs of surface height differences, and (v) one ormore combinations thereof. The aforementioned use of material additionin order to achieve the changing relative heights of the surfaceportions may be implemented by applying a formable material (e.g., acoating, a spray, an at least partially transparent paint, etc.) andcuring same. The aforementioned use of material subtraction in order toachieve the changing relative heights of the surface portions may beimplemented by removing material of the substrate (e.g., by etching, orthe like).

Although composite substrates 100-2, 100-3, 100-4 having two substrateshave been shown and described above, any suitable number of substratesmay be used. For example, an alternative composite substrate may include3 or more substrates, 4 or more substrates, 5 or more substrates, 6 ormore substrates, 7 or more substrates, 8 or more substrates, 9 or moresubstrates, 10 or more substrates, etc.

Further, one or more of the substrates may be a photosensitive glass andthe visual element may be achieved through photo exposure and/or heattreatments instead of, or in addition to, a printed visual image.

As used herein, a surface having a smooth finish has less roughnessand/or haze and/or surface element height than a surface having a mattefinish, and a surface having a matte finish has less surface roughnessand/or haze and/or surface element height than a rough surface.

The substrates disclosed herein may be incorporated into another articlesuch as an article with a display (or display articles) (e.g., consumerelectronics, including mobile phones, tablets, computers, navigationsystems, and the like), architectural articles, transportation articles(e.g., automotive, trains, aircraft, sea craft, etc.), appliancearticles, or any article that requires some transparency,scratch-resistance, abrasion resistance or a combination thereof. Anexemplary article incorporating any of the substrates disclosed hereinis shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B. Specifically, FIGS. 16A and 16B show aconsumer electronic device 6100 including a housing 6102 having front6104, back 6106, and side surfaces 6108; electrical components (notshown) that are at least partially inside or entirely within the housingand including at least a controller, a memory, and a display 6110 at oradjacent to the front surface of the housing; and a cover substrate 6112at or over the front surface of the housing such that it is over thedisplay. In some embodiments, the cover substrate 6112 may include anyof the substrates disclosed herein. In some embodiments, at least one ofa portion of the housing or the cover glass comprises the substratesdisclosed herein.

Non-limiting examples of embodiments include the following.

Embodiment 1

An apparatus, comprising:

a substrate comprising a first major surface, a second major surfaceopposite the first major surface, and at least one edge surfaceextending between the first and second major surfaces, the substratecomprising an at least partially transparent material;

at least one visual element disposed on the second major surface of thesubstrate and/or within the substrate such that the at least one visualelement may be viewed through the first major surface; and

at least one tactile element disposed on the first major surface of thesubstrate, the at least one tactile element comprising one or moresurface roughness portions,

wherein at least some of the one or more surface roughness portions ofthe tactile element are positioned on the first major surface of thesubstrate in a complimentary fashion with respect to at least some ofthe one or more visual portions of the visual element to modify thevisual effect of the visual element as viewed through the first majorsurface of the substrate.

Embodiment 2

The apparatus of embodiment 1, wherein at least some of the one or moresurface roughness portions of the tactile element are positioned on thefirst major surface of the substrate in substantial registration with atleast some of the one or more visual portions of the visual element.

Embodiment 3

The apparatus of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein:

the one or more visual portions of the visual element comprise a firstvisual portion;

the one or more surface roughness portions of the tactile elementcomprise a first roughness portion;

the first roughness portion is positioned on the first major surface ofthe substrate in the visually complimentary fashion with respect to thefirst visual portion; and

the first roughness portion is defined by one of: (i) an area ofrelatively higher surface roughness that is positioned in the visuallycomplimentary fashion bordered by at least one area of relatively lowersurface roughness, and (ii) an area of relatively lower surfaceroughness that is positioned in the visually complimentary fashionbordered by at least one area of relatively higher surface roughness.

Embodiment 4

The apparatus of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein:

a majority of a total surface area of the first major surface of thesubstrate comprises a first surface roughness;

the one or more surface roughness portions of the tactile element covera minority of the total surface area of the first major surface andcomprise at least some portions that are of a second surface roughness,which is different from the first surface roughness.

Embodiment 5

The apparatus of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein thesecond surface roughness is relatively rougher than the first surfaceroughness.

Embodiment 6

The apparatus of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the firstsurface roughness is relatively rougher than the second surfaceroughness.

Embodiment 7

The apparatus of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein thesubstrate comprises one of glass, glass ceramic material, and polymermaterial.

Embodiment 8

The apparatus of embodiment 7, wherein the substrate comprisesstrengthened glass.

Embodiment 9

The apparatus of any one of the preceding embodiments, the at least onevisual element comprising one or more visual portions arranged into atleast one of: (i) one or more areas of color, (ii) one or more lines,(iii) one or more patterns, (iv) one or more designs, (v) one or moreimages, and (vi) one or more combinations thereof, and the surfaceroughness portions arranged into at least one of: (i) one or more areasof surface roughness, (ii) one or more lines of surface roughness, (iii)one or more patterns of surface roughness, (iv) one or more designs ofsurface roughness, and (v) one or more combinations thereof.

Embodiment 10

A consumer electronic product, comprising:

a housing having a front surface, a back surface and side surfaces;

electrical components provided at least partially within the housing,the electrical components including at least a controller, a memory, anda display, the display being provided at or adjacent the front surfaceof the housing; and

a cover substrate disposed over the display,

wherein at least one of a portion of the housing or the cover substratecomprises the apparatus of any one of embodiments 1-9.

Embodiment 11

An apparatus, comprising:

a first substrate comprising a first major surface, a second majorsurface opposite the first major surface, and at least one edge surfaceextending between the first and second major surfaces, the firstsubstrate comprising an at least partially transparent material;

a second substrate comprising a first major surface, a second majorsurface opposite the first major surface, and at least one edge surfaceextending between the first and second major surfaces;

at least one first visual element disposed on the second major surfaceof the first substrate and/or within the first substrate, the at leastone first visual element being translucent, and the at least one firstvisual element viewable through the first major surface of the firstsubstrate at a plurality of viewing angles; and

at least one second visual element disposed on at least one of the firstand second major surfaces of the second substrate and/or within thesecond substrate, the at least one second visual element beingsubstantially less translucent and substantially more opaque than the atleast one first visual element, and the at least one second visualelement viewable through the first major surface of the first substrateat the plurality of viewing angles;

wherein the first and second substrates are disposed in a stackedfashion,

wherein a zero degree viewing angle among the plurality of viewingangles is defined as normal to the first and second major surfaces ofthe first and second substrates, and relatively high viewing anglesamong the plurality of viewing angles are defined as significantly acuteto the zero degree viewing angle; and

wherein the at least one second visual element is dominantly viewablethrough the first major surface of the first substrate as compared withthe at least one first visual element at the zero viewing angle, and theat least one first visual element is dominantly viewable through thefirst major surface of the first substrate as compared with the at leastone second visual element at the relatively high viewing angles.

Embodiment 12

The apparatus of embodiment 11, wherein the at least one second visualelement is gradually less dominantly viewable through the first majorsurface of the first substrate as compared with the at least one firstvisual element, and the at least one first visual element is graduallymore dominantly viewable through the first major surface of the firstsubstrate as compared with the at least one second visual element, asthe viewing angle gradually changes from the zero viewing angle to therelatively high viewing angles.

Embodiment 13

The apparatus of embodiment 11 or embodiment 12, wherein at least one ofthe at least one first visual element and the at least one second visualelement comprise one or more visual portions arranged into at least oneof: (i) one or more areas of color, (ii) one or more lines, (iii) one ormore patterns, (iv) one or more designs, (v) one or more images, and(vi) one or more combinations thereof.

Embodiment 14

The apparatus of any one of embodiments 11-13, further comprising:

at least one tactile element disposed on the first major surface of thefirst substrate, the at least one tactile element comprising one or moresurface roughness portions arranged into at least one of: (i) one ormore areas of surface roughness, (ii) one or more lines of surfaceroughness, (iii) one or more patterns of surface roughness, (iv) one ormore designs of surface roughness, and (v) one or more combinationsthereof,

wherein at least some of the one or more surface roughness portions ofthe tactile element are positioned on the first major surface of thefirst substrate in a complimentary fashion with respect to at least someof the one or more visual portions of at least one of the at least onefirst visual element and the at least one second visual element tomodify the visual effect thereof as viewed through the first majorsurface of the first substrate.

Embodiment 15

The apparatus of embodiment 14, wherein at least some of the one or moresurface roughness portions of the tactile element are positioned on thefirst major surface of the first substrate in substantial registrationwith at least some of the one or more visual portions of at least one ofthe at least one first visual element and the at least one second visualelement.

Embodiment 16

The apparatus of embodiment 14 or embodiment 15, wherein:

a majority of a total surface area of the first major surface of thefirst substrate comprises a first surface roughness;

the one or more surface roughness portions of the tactile element covera minority of the total surface area of the first major surface of thefirst substrate and comprise at least some portions that are of a secondsurface roughness.

Embodiment 17

The apparatus of embodiment 16, wherein the second surface roughness isrelatively rougher than the first surface roughness.

Embodiment 18

The apparatus of embodiment 16, wherein the first surface roughness isrelatively rougher than the second surface roughness.

Embodiment 19

The apparatus of any one of embodiments 11-18, wherein at least one of:

the first substrate comprises one of glass, glass ceramic material, andpolymer material; and

the second substrate comprises one of glass, glass ceramic material, andpolymer material.

Embodiment 20

The apparatus of embodiment 19, wherein at least one of the firstsubstrate and the second substrate comprises strengthened glass.

Embodiment 21

A consumer electronic product, comprising:

a housing having a front surface, a back surface and side surfaces;

electrical components provided at least partially within the housing,the electrical components including at least a controller, a memory, anda display, the display being provided at or adjacent the front surfaceof the housing; and

a cover substrate disposed over the display,

wherein at least one of a portion of the housing or the cover substratecomprises the apparatus of any one of embodiments 11-20.

Embodiment 22

An apparatus, comprising:

a substrate comprising a first major surface, a second major surfaceopposite the first major surface, and at least one edge surfaceextending between the first and second major surfaces, the substratecomprising an at least partially transparent material;

at least one visual element disposed on the second major surface of thesubstrate and/or within the substrate such that the at least one visualelement may be viewed through the first major surface; and

at least one tactile element disposed on the first major surface of thesubstrate, the at least one tactile element comprising one or moresurface element portions of differing heights,

wherein at least some of the one or more surface element portions of thetactile element are positioned on the first major surface of thesubstrate in a complimentary fashion with respect to at least some ofthe one or more visual portions of the visual element to modify thevisual effect of the visual element as viewed through the first majorsurface of the substrate.

Embodiment 23

The apparatus of embodiment 22, wherein at least some of the one or moresurface element portions of the tactile element are positioned on thefirst major surface of the substrate in substantial registration with atleast some of the one or more visual portions of the visual element.

Embodiment 24

The apparatus of embodiment 22 or embodiment 23, wherein:

the one or more visual portions of the visual element comprise a firstvisual portion;

the one or more surface element portions of the tactile element comprisea first surface element portion;

the first surface element portion is positioned on the first majorsurface of the substrate in the visually complimentary fashion withrespect to the first visual portion; and

the first surface element portion is defined by one of: (i) an area ofrelatively higher surface height that is positioned in the visuallycomplimentary fashion bordered by at least one area of relatively lowersurface height, and (ii) an area of relatively lower surface height thatis positioned in the visually complimentary fashion bordered by at leastone area of relatively higher surface height.

Embodiment 25

The apparatus of any one of embodiments 22-24, wherein:

a majority of a total surface area of the first major surface of thesubstrate comprises a first surface height;

the one or more surface element portions of the tactile element cover aminority of the total surface area of the first major surface andcomprise at least some portions that are of a second surface height,which is different from the first surface height.

Embodiment 26

The apparatus of any one of embodiments 22-25, wherein the secondsurface height is relatively higher than the first surface height.

Embodiment 27

The apparatus of any one of embodiments 22-26, wherein the first surfaceheight is relatively higher than the second surface height.

Embodiment 28

The apparatus of any one of embodiments 22-27, wherein the substratecomprises one of glass, glass ceramic material, and polymer material.

Embodiment 29

The apparatus of any one of embodiments 22-28, wherein the substratecomprises strengthened glass.

Embodiment 30

The apparatus of any one of embodiments 22-29, the at least one visualelement comprising one or more visual portions arranged into at leastone of: (i) one or more areas of color, (ii) one or more lines, (iii)one or more patterns, (iv) one or more designs, (v) one or more images,and (vi) one or more combinations thereof, and the one or more surfaceelement portions of differing heights arranged into at least one of: (i)one or more areas of surface height differences, (ii) one or more linesof surface height differences, (iii) one or more patterns of surfaceheight differences, (iv) one or more designs of surface heightdifferences, and (v) one or more combinations thereof.

Embodiment 31

A consumer electronic product, comprising:

a housing having a front surface, a back surface and side surfaces;

electrical components provided at least partially within the housing,the electrical components including at least a controller, a memory, anda display, the display being provided at or adjacent the front surfaceof the housing; and

a cover substrate disposed over the display,

wherein at least one of a portion of the housing or the cover substratecomprises the apparatus of any one of embodiments 22-30.

Embodiment 32

A method, comprising:

applying at least one tactile element on a first major surface of asubstrate, the substrate further comprising a second major surfaceopposite the first major surface, and at least one edge surfaceextending between the first and second major surfaces, the substratecomprising an at least partially transparent material, the at least onetactile element comprising one or more surface roughness portionsarranged into at least one of: (i) one or more areas of surfaceroughness, (ii) one or more lines of surface roughness, (iii) one ormore patterns of surface roughness, (iv) one or more designs of surfaceroughness, and (v) one or more combinations thereof;

applying at least one visual element on the second major surface of thesubstrate and/or within the substrate such that the at least one visualelement may be viewed through the first major surface, the at least onevisual element comprising one or more visual portions arranged into atleast one of: (i) one or more areas of color, (ii) one or more lines,(iii) one or more patterns, (iv) one or more designs, (v) one or moreimages, and (vi) one or more combinations thereof; and

positioning at least some of the one or more surface roughness portionsof the tactile element on the first major surface of the substrate in acomplimentary fashion with respect to at least some of the one or morevisual portions of the visual element to modify the visual effect of thevisual element as viewed through the first major surface of thesubstrate.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A consumer electronic product, comprising:a housing having a front surface, a back surface and side surfaces;electrical components provided at least partially within the housing,the electrical components including at least a controller, a memory, anda display, the display being provided at or adjacent the front surfaceof the housing; and a cover substrate disposed over the display, whereinat least one of a portion of the housing or the cover substratecomprises an apparatus comprising: a first substrate comprising a firstmajor surface, a second major surface opposite the first major surface,and at least one edge surface extending between the first and secondmajor surfaces, the first substrate comprising an at least partiallytransparent material; a second substrate comprising a first majorsurface, a second major surface opposite the first major surface, and atleast one edge surface extending between the first and second majorsurfaces; at least one first visual element disposed on the second majorsurface of the first substrate and/or within the first substrate, the atleast one first visual element being translucent, and the at least onefirst visual element viewable through the first major surface of thefirst substrate at a plurality of viewing angles; and at least onesecond visual element disposed on at least one of the first and secondmajor surfaces of the second substrate and/or within the secondsubstrate, the at least one second visual element being substantiallyless translucent and substantially more opaque than the at least onefirst visual element, and the at least one second visual elementviewable through the first major surface of the first substrate at theplurality of viewing angles; wherein the first and second substrates aredisposed in a stacked fashion, wherein a zero degree viewing angle amongthe plurality of viewing angles is defined as normal to the first andsecond major surfaces of the first and second substrates, and relativelyhigh viewing angles among the plurality of viewing angles are defined assignificantly acute to the zero degree viewing angle; and wherein the atleast one second visual element is dominantly viewable through the firstmajor surface of the first substrate as compared with the at least onefirst visual element at the zero viewing angle, and the at least onefirst visual element is dominantly viewable through the first majorsurface of the first substrate as compared with the at least one secondvisual element at the relatively high viewing angles.
 2. The consumerelectronic product of claim 1, wherein the at least one second visualelement is gradually less dominantly viewable through the first majorsurface of the first substrate as compared with the at least one firstvisual element, and the at least one first visual element is graduallymore dominantly viewable through the first major surface of the firstsubstrate as compared with the at least one second visual element, asthe viewing angle gradually changes from the zero viewing angle to therelatively high viewing angles.
 3. The consumer electronic product ofclaim 1, wherein at least one of the at least one first visual elementand the at least one second visual element comprise one or more visualportions arranged into at least one of: (i) one or more areas of color,(ii) one or more lines, (iii) one or more patterns, (iv) one or moredesigns, (v) one or more images, and (vi) one or more combinationsthereof.
 4. The consumer electronic product of claim 1, furthercomprising: at least one tactile element disposed on the first majorsurface of the first substrate, the at least one tactile elementcomprising one or more surface roughness portions arranged into at leastone of: (i) one or more areas of surface roughness, (ii) one or morelines of surface roughness, (iii) one or more patterns of surfaceroughness, (iv) one or more designs of surface roughness, and (v) one ormore combinations thereof, wherein at least some of the one or moresurface roughness portions of the tactile element are positioned on thefirst major surface of the first substrate in a complimentary fashionwith respect to at least some of the one or more visual portions of atleast one of the at least one first visual element and the at least onesecond visual element to modify the visual effect thereof as viewedthrough the first major surface of the first substrate.
 5. The consumerelectronic product of claim 4, wherein at least some of the one or moresurface roughness portions of the tactile element are positioned on thefirst major surface of the first substrate in substantial registrationwith at least some of the one or more visual portions of at least one ofthe at least one first visual element and the at least one second visualelement.
 6. The consumer electronic product of claim 4, wherein: amajority of a total surface area of the first major surface of the firstsubstrate comprises a first surface roughness; the one or more surfaceroughness portions of the tactile element cover a minority of the totalsurface area of the first major surface of the first substrate andcomprise at least some portions that are of a second surface roughness.7. The consumer electronic product of claim 6, wherein the secondsurface roughness is relatively rougher than the first surfaceroughness.
 8. The consumer electronic product of claim 6, wherein thefirst surface roughness is relatively rougher than the second surfaceroughness.
 9. The consumer electronic product of claim 1, wherein atleast one of: the first substrate comprises one of glass, glass ceramicmaterial, and polymer material; and the second substrate comprises oneof glass, glass ceramic material, and polymer material.
 10. The consumerelectronic product of claim 9, wherein at least one of the firstsubstrate and the second substrate comprises strengthened glass.